A unit on genetics would be built primarily upon the structure of DNA in relation to the process of meiosis, Mendelian genetics, and the diversity of life; the diversity of life would expand on concepts like modes of inheritance, allele type and frequency, and forming punnet squares and pedigrees. Many subtopics can be taught from a relevant, real-life point of view, like epigenetics, inherited genetic diseases, biotechnology and the importance of mapping the human genome. Such a unit would be easy to diversify activities and assessments, as it allows for:
Integration of writing prompts
Opportunities to use a variety of resources to engage in cultivating literacy skills
the use of mathematics to determine ratios, percents, and probability
consideration of the historical basis of the field of genetics
geography to look at distribution patterns of certain traits on a larger spatial scale
In this way, students will more readily understand how the topics are applicable to life beyond the classroom.
As far as activities, the unit has many possibilities; in considering the method of instruction of my high school placement and the increasing availability of technology in the classroom, concepts can be reviewed through online textbooks, modules, and videos. Applications for tablets or smartphones exist for making flashcards, manipulating DNA sequences, or polling questions in a class discussion. Simulations and games keeps students engaged, and would be helpful in illustrating more difficult concepts, particularly the structure of DNA and meiosis. Kinesthetic activities could include drawing models of the cell cycle, finding ways to illustrate allele assortment in punnet squares or interpreting given scenarios to chart a pedigree or karyotype, or making models of DNA or protein synthesis.
- Integration of writing prompts
- Opportunities to use a variety of resources to engage in cultivating literacy skills
- the use of mathematics to determine ratios, percents, and probability
- consideration of the historical basis of the field of genetics
- geography to look at distribution patterns of certain traits on a larger spatial scale
In this way, students will more readily understand how the topics are applicable to life beyond the classroom.As far as activities, the unit has many possibilities; in considering the method of instruction of my high school placement and the increasing availability of technology in the classroom, concepts can be reviewed through online textbooks, modules, and videos. Applications for tablets or smartphones exist for making flashcards, manipulating DNA sequences, or polling questions in a class discussion. Simulations and games keeps students engaged, and would be helpful in illustrating more difficult concepts, particularly the structure of DNA and meiosis. Kinesthetic activities could include drawing models of the cell cycle, finding ways to illustrate allele assortment in punnet squares or interpreting given scenarios to chart a pedigree or karyotype, or making models of DNA or protein synthesis.